Gazda told the students that he is lucky to have a job he feels passionate about.

“The sense of accomplishment I get through making a difference and overcoming constant challenges on a daily basis, and the fact that I enjoy what I do, who I do it with and where I do it is what makes this the right profession for me.”

“My wish for you is that you also find a profession that does not feel like work,” Gazda said during the commencement held at the Mullins Center at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst.

Of the 227 graduates, 84 percent will go on to college and 8 percent will go on to military service. The remainder will enter the work force.

Valedictorian is Alison Leecock with a 4.4785 grade point average. She plans to attend Boston College.

Salutatorian is Aryelle Teixeira with a 4.4548 grade point average. She plans to attend Worcester Polytechnic Institute.

“Discover what you are passionate about and then figure out how to turn it into your life’s work,” Gazda said.

“He added, “For some of you that may be politics, medicine, music, law enforcement or the arts. For others it may be the military or a job where you can work with your hands. It may be local or you may travel all over the world.”

Gazda concluded, “Always remember where you came from and what you learned here.”

“You are Ludlow High School’s Class of 2013,” Gazda said. “Be proud. Be proud of your town. Be proud of your school. Congratulations and I wish you the best.”